Blessings may not be readily apparent, but they exist, and can are waiting to be found, Deacon Joe Urbiel told Christ the King Parish in Detroit.

In times of darkness, there is also light and hope, Deacon Joe shared in The Broadcast, the church bulletin.

The challenges of 2020 have mounted upon each other, starting with the COVID-19 pandemic. Now its economic toll is keenly felt with millions unemployed. In the midst of the pandemic has come social unrest as people throughout the nation have taken to the streets calling for an end to systematic racism, Deacon Joe said in the bulletin. He referred to this era at a time that can awaken us to a deep sense of thankfulness.

“This time of pandemic and social unrest, despite all of the suffering and heartbreak, is one of those times,” he said in the bulletin.

Deacon Joe referred to scripture that ties a bond to all races of men in 1 Cor. 10:17, “We, though many are one body,” the bulletin reported.

He stressed there is inspiration to be gained from what is taking place and the people impacted in current events. He said that as Christians and through the Sacrament of the Eucharist, the ability to enter the lives, the joys and the sorrows of all people as Christ did for us.

“For this, we cannot help but be full of gratitude and thanksgiving,” he said, the bulletin reported. “Because of this we have the blessed assurance that we can find the answers to curing disease; transforming our economy to serve all people; healing the damage done by humanity to our earth; and transforming our will to rid our society of the scourge of racism, providing justice and opportunity for all.”

He said through Christ nothing is possible and offered thanks for first responders and the protesters. The deacon continued in offering thanks to God who has stood by his children throughout time and to his Son and the Holy Spirit.